No fatalities

Aircraft Crash Lands in Sugar Cane Field; Pilot Missing (N4996E)

Belle Glade, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On December 14, 1978, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration N4996E) operated by Jose Rodriguez was involved in an aviation accident near Belle Glade, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Ground loop during landing roll after the pilot selected an unsuitable terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crash landed in a Belle Glade sugar cane field, sustaining substantial damage. The pilot remains missing. The flight was illegal, carrying marijuana.

Incident Details

An aircraft crash landed in a sugar cane field in Belle Glade, Florida, and was damaged beyond repair. The pilot, apparently the sole occupant, was not located following the accident. The flight was illegal, with a load of marijuana on board.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined that the accident involved a ground loop during the landing roll after the pilot selected an unsuitable terrain. Contributing factors included misjudged distance and speed, high vegetation, rough terrain, the illegal transportation of marijuana, and the crew not being apprehended.

Probable cause

Ground loop during landing roll after the pilot selected an unsuitable terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Dec 1978 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Belle Glade, United States of America?

An aircraft crash landed in a Belle Glade sugar cane field, sustaining substantial damage. The pilot remains missing. The flight was illegal, carrying marijuana.

Were there any fatalities in the 14 Dec 1978 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Dec 1978 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration N4996E, operated by Jose Rodriguez, at Belle Glade, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Ground loop during landing roll after the pilot selected an unsuitable terrain.